he global literacy rate has come a long way. From a mere 10% in 1800, to today: 87% of adults worldwide possess basic reading and writing skills. This remarkable shift means that only one in ten people remain illiterate, a stark contrast from two centuries ago.
The good news is that 99% literacy rate has been achieved in most developed countries. The Nordic countries excel in educational performance, digital literacy, and media engagement. Gender disparities in literacy have narrowed from over 17% in 1976 to just 7% in 2020 (83% literacy rate for women vs 90% for men).
However, challenges persist. UNESCO reports that 750 million adults still lack literacy skills—of these, two–thirds are women. Regional disparities also continue—with needs particularly severe in sub–Saharan Africa. The countries with the lowest levels are Mali (35%), South Sudan (35%), and Afghanistan (37%). Thus, breaking the link between poverty and illiteracy is still a major challenge.
We should learn from traditional literacy efforts, including:
- Widespread school education enables basic literacy for all. Early intervention is crucial. Focusing on early childhood education yields long–term benefits.
- Community involvement is key to sustainable literacy programs. Technology can be a powerful tool, especially in remote areas or for those unable to attend school regularly.
- Local context matters. Successful programs adapt to cultural and linguistic needs. Combining literacy with life skills and vocational training can increase engagement and impact.
Furthermore, our complex digital world demands new forms of literacy beyond reading and writing skills. Media literacy, digital literacy, data literacy, social literacy, climate literacy, financial literacy, and health literacy are now essential for thriving in our rapidly evolving society. These skills empower both children and adults to navigate challenges now and in the future.
To address these modern literacies, consider a three–pronged approach:
- Embed new literacies within education rather than treating them as separate subjects. Make these literacies relevant to local context and daily life. This would build critical thinking skills and competencies to evaluate options for financial, health, or environmental decisions.
- Leverage technology and expertise to enhance the teaching of new literacies. Collaborate with experts in tech companies, climate scientists, financial services, and media professionals to develop curriculum and digital tools. Invest in teacher training and prioritize ongoing professional development.
- Involve parents and the wider community in learning these new literacies. Learning these new literacies is not confined to formal education or young people. These new literacies need continuous updating given the pace of technological advancement.
Implementing this requires a cross–sector coalition with sustained government support and funding. These new literacies are crucial, for everyone. We need a holistic approach that combines technological and pedagogical innovation, expert involvement, and community engagement. Together we can build a literate, thriving world in the age of artificial intelligence and automation.
a global affairs media network
Global literacy amid digital world, progress and new frontiers
Photo by Ivan Aleksic from Unsplash.
September 5, 2024
Despite literacy rates’ improvement within the last two centuries, challenges persist—including regional and gender disparities. To address modern challenges, consider: new literacies within education, leveraging technology and expertise, and involving the wider community, writes Joysy John, MBE.
T
he global literacy rate has come a long way. From a mere 10% in 1800, to today: 87% of adults worldwide possess basic reading and writing skills. This remarkable shift means that only one in ten people remain illiterate, a stark contrast from two centuries ago.
The good news is that 99% literacy rate has been achieved in most developed countries. The Nordic countries excel in educational performance, digital literacy, and media engagement. Gender disparities in literacy have narrowed from over 17% in 1976 to just 7% in 2020 (83% literacy rate for women vs 90% for men).
However, challenges persist. UNESCO reports that 750 million adults still lack literacy skills—of these, two–thirds are women. Regional disparities also continue—with needs particularly severe in sub–Saharan Africa. The countries with the lowest levels are Mali (35%), South Sudan (35%), and Afghanistan (37%). Thus, breaking the link between poverty and illiteracy is still a major challenge.
We should learn from traditional literacy efforts, including:
- Widespread school education enables basic literacy for all. Early intervention is crucial. Focusing on early childhood education yields long–term benefits.
- Community involvement is key to sustainable literacy programs. Technology can be a powerful tool, especially in remote areas or for those unable to attend school regularly.
- Local context matters. Successful programs adapt to cultural and linguistic needs. Combining literacy with life skills and vocational training can increase engagement and impact.
Furthermore, our complex digital world demands new forms of literacy beyond reading and writing skills. Media literacy, digital literacy, data literacy, social literacy, climate literacy, financial literacy, and health literacy are now essential for thriving in our rapidly evolving society. These skills empower both children and adults to navigate challenges now and in the future.
To address these modern literacies, consider a three–pronged approach:
- Embed new literacies within education rather than treating them as separate subjects. Make these literacies relevant to local context and daily life. This would build critical thinking skills and competencies to evaluate options for financial, health, or environmental decisions.
- Leverage technology and expertise to enhance the teaching of new literacies. Collaborate with experts in tech companies, climate scientists, financial services, and media professionals to develop curriculum and digital tools. Invest in teacher training and prioritize ongoing professional development.
- Involve parents and the wider community in learning these new literacies. Learning these new literacies is not confined to formal education or young people. These new literacies need continuous updating given the pace of technological advancement.
Implementing this requires a cross–sector coalition with sustained government support and funding. These new literacies are crucial, for everyone. We need a holistic approach that combines technological and pedagogical innovation, expert involvement, and community engagement. Together we can build a literate, thriving world in the age of artificial intelligence and automation.
